Alright, I got good feedback on Part One of this list, so here are ten more top SF dates:
1) Green Apple Books and Burma Superstar
Two great romantic locales on Clement Street in SF's Richmond district. Green Apple is a wonderful new and used book store with many hidden gems and a great staff. Burma Superstar will blow your culinary socks off for a reasonable price and amazing Asian cuisine. If things go well, I'd also recommend sliding over to one of the many quality Irish bars nearby afterwards.
2) SF Flower Conservatory and Hotei Noodle House
The SF Flower Conservatory is in the heart of Golden Gate Park and has an amazing array of horticultural delights to pique the sensual senses. According to one contributor, must-sees include: "giant ass-shaped coconuts, creeping orchids and pretty butterflies." Afterwards, walk through the park to Hotei Noodle House on Ninth Ave. for some of the best miso ramen evar.
3) Geek Parades: Dorkbot, RoboGames, Maker Faire
SF is famous for its geeks in all their glory, so you can't go wrong checking out one of the monthly or annual geek extravaganzas offered in the city. Try it even if you or your sweetie isn't a geek. You'll be surprised how funny, creative, and accessible these events are. At the very least, there will be tons to talk about afterwards.
4) Hot Chocolate/Toddy/Coffee and Telling Ghost Stories at the Moss Beach Distillery
This haunted beachfront restaurant offers an amazing view, decent food, and wool blankets to keep warm and you snuggle up and watch the waves come in from Hawaii. A great little stop only 12 miles from SF down Highway One.
5) Rock-climbing class at Mission Cliffs, then Mexican
Wanna get sweaty on the first date? Well, one way to do it is take a rock-climbing class together at one of the Touchstone Gyms in the Bay Area. I like Mission Cliffs, myself, 'cause its also close to great Mexican food, so you can fill up on greasy goodness afterwards. Los Jarritos is one of my favs, but there are literally dozens within walking distance. One nice thing about rock climbing is that everyone can learn how to do it and can feel like they accomplished something on the date. Lots to talk about afterwards and takes the pressure off having to impress the person 100% with your personality.
6) 826 Valencia Fundraiser
This nationally-recognized literacy and tutoring program started right here in SF at the now-famous "pirate store" on Valenica street, created by Dave Eggers and co. from McSweeny's. Not only is it a great cause to support, but they almost always get A-list talent at their events. Past fundraisers have included Sarah Vowell, Eggers himself, Aimee Mann, Sarah Silverman, and many other talented folks. They always put on a good show and leave you feeling good about giving them your money. It's a great way to demonstrate to someone you like that you're both cultured and good-hearted. :)
7) Hot Donuts for Sunrise at Dolores Park
No, this isn't a pseudonym for sex, it's an honest-to-god date idea. Seriously. And it's simple. Just look up when sunrise is, then go by your favorite donut shop about 30 minutes beforehand and meet at the top of Dolores Park. There's a bench there with a beautiful view of downtown SF and the East Bay. Eat piping hot donuts and drink your favorite beverage while nature does all the hard work for you. Then run off to work and leave that special someone swooning for you the rest of the day.
8) Flying Kites on Bernal Hill + Emmy's Spaghetti Shack
Bernal hill sits at the south end of San Francisco, a lone peak with great views and strong wins. What better place to go fly a kite? There's even a kite fighting society that meets there regularly if you like more of a "combat" angle to the whole thing. Afterwards (or before) scoot on down the hill to Emmy's, where you get quality meatballs and funky decor.
9) Ferry Building Farmer's Market + Picnic on Angel Island
Angel Island is a gorgeous gem in the middle of the San Francisco Bay, but the only way to get there is via romantic ferry ride. Aw, shucks. On a sunny day, you can hike or bike around the island quite a bit, but I also like to bring a picnic lunch and settle down somewhere with a view of the city. The Ferry Building Farmer's Market is a perfect place to grab everything you need for the trip, although be aware that the Angel Island Ferry doesn't leave from there but another pier about a half-mile down from the Market.
10) Tilden Park Steam Trains + Sunset on Inspiration Point
I couldn't do another Top Ten without tipping my hat to some of the East Bay options. Anyone who's spent time there knows how beautiful Tilden Park can be, but not everyone knows there are actual mini-steam trains one can ride on. The ride doesn't last long but it is cute and fun and sets a romantic mood. Afterwards, you can take a walk up on Inspiration Point and see a great view of the bay, including SF.
Alright, that should keep everyone busy for a while. More to come next year.
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